Final answer:
Luther meant by indulgences as the forgiveness of sins granted by the Catholic Church. Indulgences were closely related to the concept of sin and the practice of selling them was criticized by Martin Luther during the Protestant Reformation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Luther meant by the word indulgence as the forgiveness of sins granted by the Catholic Church. It was believed that indulgences could reduce the amount of punishment one would have to undergo for their sins. Indulgences were often associated with the concept of sin because they were seen as a way to obtain forgiveness and avoid punishment for sinful actions.
During the time of Martin Luther's debate with the Roman Catholic Church, the practice of selling indulgences was common. People could purchase indulgences to absolve themselves or their loved ones of past sins or even future sins they intended to commit. Luther strongly criticized this practice, viewing it as exploitative and corrupt.
The historical context of Luther's debate with the Catholic Church was the Protestant Reformation, a religious and political movement that aimed to reform the Roman Catholic Church. Luther's Ninety-Five Theses, published in 1517, challenged several practices of the Catholic Church, including the sale of indulgences, and played a significant role in sparking the Reformation.
Learn more about Indulgences and Martin Luther's critique of them